*Image generated by AI

Ever feel like your writing isn’t improving? Like you’ve been writing consistently, taking the classes, participating in the workshops, but you just can’t seem to break this plateau that keeps you from taking your writing to the next level? If you’re looking for ways to improve your creative writing, there’s an unexpected secret weapon: musical instruments. 

Writing can be an exhausting endeavor. You spend hours, days, months, maybe years getting your story just right, only to be rejected time and time again. You may even spend hundreds or thousands of dollars on bootcamps, workshops, editors, degrees, and still you can’t get any traction in a business that’s built solely on subjective opinions. 

There may be a tool you haven’t considered. Learning a musical instrument doesn’t just train your fingers and ears, it trains your brain. And it does so in ways that will improve your writing craft.

1. Music Teaches Rhythm 

Good writers use varying sentence structure and other tools to manipulate the rhythm or pace of their stories. This leads to emotional resonation with the reader. Learning an instrument helps you develop a natural sensitivity to rhythm and flow. Writers with a more thorough understanding of rhythm can write more emotionally resonant stories.

 2. Music Unlocks Emotional Depth

Doesn’t matter how exciting your plot is, readers need to relate to your characters on an emotional level. Music is emotional language, and learning an instrument helps us speak that language. Ever been moved to tears or galvanized to action by a song? Understanding that language helps our writing become more visceral and impactful. 

3. Music and Writing Are Both Storytelling Arts 

Tension and resolution are key elements of good writing, and the same goes for music. Musicians use time-tested techniques to create and resolve tension, and learning those techniques on an instrument can spark new insights into how you can execute the same thing in your writing. 

4. Music Boosts Brain Function 

We all know music can reduce stress, improve wellbeing, and increase focus. But studies have shown that only playing musical instruments affects the temporal processes of the brain. Without getting too sciency, temporal processes include event ordering, pattern recognition, and language processing—key tools in a writer’s toolbox.

 5. Music Invites Play—and Writers Need More of That 

All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.

We put a ton of pressure on ourselves to produce–and to produce good work. This often leads to burnout, decreased confidence, and writer’s block. Shifting your creative focus to a medium that allows you to explore with playful creativity can give our writers’ brains a break while keeping the creative juices flowing.

And significantly reduces the odds of us trying to axe-murder our family.

Want More Creative Tips? 

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FAQ: Music & Creative Writing 

Q: Can learning an instrument really help with creative writing? 
A: Yes. It strengthens rhythm, emotion, and storytelling. 

Q: What instruments are best for writers to learn? 
A: Any instrument that inspires you! 

Q: Is music good for overcoming writer’s block? 
A: Absolutely. It activates your creativity in a new way. 

Q: How can I start if I’m brand new to music? 
A: If you have the resources, hire an instructor. Otherwise, there are lots of apps and YouTube channels.